Hedgehogs and the danger of cow's milk

Hedgehogs, often seen scurrying through gardens, are being unintentionally harmed by well-meaning humans who offer them cow's milk. This practice, rooted in old beliefs and children's stories, can lead to serious health issues for the small mammals.

Lactose intolerance in hedgehogs

Hedgehogs lack the enzyme lactase, which is necessary to digest lactose, a sugar found in cow's milk. This inability can cause severe digestive problems, including diarrhea and dehydration, which can be fatal for these small animals.

Legal protection for hedgehogs in France

The European hedgehog is officially protected in France under a 2007 decree that lists protected mammals. This means it is illegal to harm or disturb them without a valid reason, highlighting the responsibility gardeners have in caring for these animals.

Correct feeding practices for hedgehogs

To help hedgehogs survive the winter, gardeners should offer fresh water in a shallow bowl and cat food instead of milk. These items provide the necessary nutrients without the risk of lactose-related illness.

Weight and survival during hibernation

A hedgehog must weigh at least 450 grams by autumn to survive hibernation. If they are too light, they may not have enough fat reserves to last until spring, and rescue centers often see an influx of underweight hedgehogs in late autumn.

Simple actions to support hedgehogs

Gardeners can support hedgehogs by leaving parts of their gardens undisturbed, offering appropriate food each evening, and monitoring the animals’ weight. If a hedgehog appears too weak, contacting a wildlife rescue center is the best course of action.